Hawick strikes green note with new money

A TOWN has launched its own currency in an effort to revive local businesses.

The "Hawick Pound" aims to encourage people to shop locally amid concerns from traders about competition from big retailers.

Participants will be able to buy goods from local shops with the special Hawick 1 notes.

About 30 local firms have so far signed up to the pilot, which is being organised by the Greener Hawick group and is part of Hawick's status as a "transition town", which aims to prepare for life after peak oil and climate change.

Greener Hawick secretary, Andy Maybury, said: "Our High Street is dying, as with so many other places around the country.

"The big boys come in and undercut the local traders, but we need to retain the local traders."

Organisers are offering a discount – 21 Hawick pounds for 20 – to spark interest in the scheme.